Stephenson County Fairgrounds hosting threshing show this weekend

FREEPORT — The Stephenson County Fairgrounds are flooded with antique farm equipment this weekend.

The annual Stephenson County threshing show has been a tradition for the last 45 years.

“It’s showing the younger generation how things used to be,” said Michelle DeBoer, secretary of the Stephenson County Antique Engine Club. “It’s important to keep the tradition going so they can see how things were done before everything was automated.”

The featured display this year is a rare collection of tractors from Allis-Chalmers. Ninety orange tractors line a section of the fairgrounds, and more are expected to roll in throughout the weekend.

“The local people can come back every year and see something different,” said Norm Meinert, co-chairman of feature display. “That’s the idea of rotating who’s featured, otherwise the show would be boring if it were identical every year. (They) can come and see a part of history.”

Attendees of the threshing show can also check out a flea market, saw mill and shingle mill.